The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology is reshaping how we interact with digital content—and not always for the better. In Pakistan, deepfakes, which use AI to manipulate audio or video to create convincing but false representations, are emerging as a growing concern. While AI offers tremendous opportunities for innovation in healthcare, education, and business, its misuse poses ethical and social challenges that cannot be ignored.
Deepfakes have already made headlines globally for their ability to spread misinformation, ruin reputations, and even influence public opinion. In Pakistan, where internet literacy is still evolving, the risks of deepfake misuse are even higher. Fake videos or audio clips, often shared without verification, can quickly go viral on social media platforms. Whether it’s a falsified statement from a public figure or a doctored video targeting an individual, the impact of such content can be devastating. For ordinary citizens, deepfakes have been used to create fabricated compromising videos, leading to harassment, blackmail, and irreparable damage to reputations.
The accessibility of deepfake tools has made the problem worse. With minimal technical knowledge, almost anyone can create and share convincing fake content. This is particularly concerning in a society where misinformation already spreads rapidly. From fake political statements to falsified news reports, deepfakes can erode trust in institutions, media, and even personal relationships. In a country like
Pakistan, where social and cultural norms are deeply rooted, the misuse of deepfakes can have long-lasting social consequences.
The response to this challenge has been slow but growing. Organizations are starting to educate people about the dangers of deepfakes and how to verify the authenticity of digital content. Some local startups and universities are also working on developing AI tools to detect and flag deepfake content. However, these efforts remain in their infancy, and more needs to be done to address the issue at scale.
To counter the misuse of AI, Pakistan must invest in digital literacy programs that teach people how to critically evaluate online content. Laws and regulations around cybercrime and data privacy need to be updated to address the rise of deepfakes specifically. At the same time, tech companies operating in Pakistan should take greater responsibility for monitoring and removing harmful content from their platforms.
While AI and deepfakes offer exciting possibilities, their misuse poses a significant risk to social harmony and individual safety. Recognizing and addressing these challenges early is crucial if Pakistan is to harness the benefits of AI while minimizing its darker consequences.
